Month: October 2023

Are you hearing a loud clanking, rattling or buzzing noise from your AC compressor? A noisy compressor can not only be annoying but can also indicate underlying issues that need your attention. In this article, we will explore the top five reasons for a noisy aircon compressor and provide solutions to help you enjoy a quieter and more efficient cooling experience.

1. Malfunctioning Compressor Motor

A malfunctioning compressor fan motor is the number one reason for your compressor to be noisy. The compressor motor is a vital component of your air conditioning system. When it starts to malfunction or fail, it can generate various noises, such as clicking, banging, or even high-pitched screeches. Common causes of a malfunctioning compressor motor include wear and tear over time, electrical issues, or overheating due to a lack of maintenance.

Fix

To address a malfunctioning compressor motor, it’s essential to consult a professional HVAC technician. They will assess the situation and may recommend one of the following solutions:

• Motor Repair: In some cases, the motor might be repairable by replacing specific components. Repair costs can vary but typically range from $200 to $600, including labor.
• Motor Replacement: If the motor is severely damaged, it might need to be replaced. The cost of a compressor motor replacement ranges from $500 to $1,500, including parts and labor.

2. Bent Or Misaligned Compressor Fan Blades

The compressor fan blades play a crucial role in air circulation within the unit. When they become bent or misaligned, they can generate various noises, such as rattling, clicking, or scraping. This issue can occur due to accidental impacts, debris getting caught in the fan, or natural wear and tear.

Fix

Resolving bent or misaligned fan blades usually involves one of the following:

• Blade Straightening: In many cases, a technician can straighten the blades, which is a cost-effective solution. Blade straightening typically costs around $100 to $200, including labor.
• Blade Replacement: If the fan blades are severely damaged, they may need to be replaced. The cost for new blades can range from $150 to $300, including parts and labor.

3. Overused Compressor

An overused compressor can put excessive stress on various components within the unit, causing screws, bolts, or other parts to become loose or damaged. This can result in noises like rattling or clanking. Overuse is often a result of not following a proper maintenance schedule, including neglecting cleaning and servicing.

Fix

Fixing this issue typically involves:

• Tightening Loose Components: A technician can tighten any loose screws, bolts, or components. This part of the repair may cost around $100 to $200, including labor.
• Component Replacement: If parts are severely damaged, they should be replaced. The cost for this type of repair can vary significantly, depending on the extent of the damage and the specific components that need replacement. It may range from $150 to $500 or more.

In all cases, it’s crucial to consult a professional HVAC technician to accurately diagnose and resolve these issues. Attempting DIY repairs can lead to further damage and may void your warranty. Professional technicians have the expertise and experience to ensure the safe and effective repair of your aircon compressor. The estimated costs provided are approximate and may vary depending on your specific situation and location.

The unique climatic conditions of Singapore, demands an efficient aircon system that will work consistently to keep the indoor spaces cool and comfortable.

According to air-conditioning experts, aircon maintenance and inspection should be done at least once every three months even if the unit is not faulty. This is crucial in assuring that the air conditioner will run as efficiently as possible.

Major Benefits of Regular Aircon Servicing

1) Increases System Efficiency

If general servicing is done at a regular interval, it helps to maintain the efficiency of the air conditioner. With time, dust particles and debris accumulates on the coils and filters thereby reducing its efficiency. To make the air cool down, the unit then has to work harder resulting in increased energy consumption. Regular maintenance will ensure your unit remains at peak performance, by cooling the air faster and have more efficient power consumption.

2) Purifies Indoor Air Quality

It is very important that the air we breathe in is fresh and purified. Air conditioners, over time start to accumulate dust, dirt and debris which can easily get circulated into your home atmosphere, leading to various health issues such as allergies or respiratory problems. If Aircon servicing is done at regular intervals, a thorough cleaning of the dirt and other impurities that have accumulated on the filters and evaporator coil is guaranteed. Hence you and your loved ones get a purified dust free fresh air.

3) Extends Aircon Longevity

It is important to understand that just like any other mechanical device, an aircon also needs timely servicing. Lack of regular maintenance, will lead its parts to wear out over time and the lifespan of the aircon may reduce to only a few years. On the other hand, if regular servicing is conducted, it can increase the longevity of your aircon up to 15 to 20 years. Considering the hot and humid climate of Singapore, it is recommended to do a general servicing every 3-4 months. This will in turn lengthen the lifespan of your unit thereby bring down your overall expenses.

4) Protection against Infections

Air conditioners can become breeding grounds for mold, bacteria, fungus, unwanted pests and allergens resulting in contaminated air from the aircon unit. This will naturally result in a foul smell and can even make you fall sick. A regular cleaning and maintenance will help to protect the unit from this breeding of infectious germs.

5) Save on Electricity Bills

The aircon will function at it’s peak if the unit is clean. The cleaner the aircon is, the highest will be its efficiency level leading to a faster cooling. Faster cooling implies more efficient power consumption and less electricity bills to pay.

6) Prevent Breakdowns

By doing a routine maintenance, the professionals can easily identify potential issues and thereby prevent them from eventually turning into major problems or a major breakdown. This proactive approach can prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

7) Value for Money

Regular servicing is cost effective as it helps to save your money in many ways. It helps to reduce power consumption thereby saving you on electricity bills. Again, it helps to purify the air you breathe in thus saving you the cost of doctor visit and ill health. Also the expenditure on highly expensive chemical overhaul and repairs are minimized with routine cleaning and maintenance.

8) Provide proof of Aircon servicing or get a Service Record

In Singapore, many house owners or landlords asks for a proof of regular aircon servicing, from their tenants. If regular servicing is done, the service provider can issue the Service Record or the proof of service which will help in your tenancy agreement with your landlord.

What happens if air conditioner is not serviced?

If the air conditioner unit is not serviced at regular intervals, it will surely be inefficient and not be able to cool the space, even after remaining on for hours. This will naturally result in – high electricity bills, non-functional aircon and expensive repairs!

In Singapore’s climate, where air conditioners are more of a necessity rather than a luxury, regular servicing is vital. Scheduled maintenance of aircons ensures energy efficiency, prolongs the lifespan of your unit, and improves indoor air quality. Moreover, it also prevents health issues and costly repairs for breakdowns. Hence, to enjoy the full benefits of your air conditioner and maintain a comfortable and healthy living environment, make sure to schedule regular servicing with a trusted professional. It’s an investment that pays off in both the short and long term, ensuring that you stay cool and comfortable in Singapore’s hot and humid weather.

In this scorching heat of Singapore, air conditioners are a lifeline, providing much-needed respite from the oppressive weather. To ensure that your AC unit functions efficiently and reliably, it is essential to do regular servicing.

According to aircon service providers, whether or not the aircon is suspected with any problem; it is advised to have it serviced and inspected at least once every 3 months. Irrespective of the fact the air conditioner is faulty, performing a General Servicing at this frequency, will ensure it’s operation at maximum efficiency.

Factors That Influences The Frequency Of AC Servicing

1. The Type Of Aircon Unit

The frequency of servicing significantly depends on the type of Air Conditioner installed.

There are primarily two types of air conditioners:

(A) Window AC Units: The size of these units is smaller and installed in single-room. These air conditioners usually need to be serviced once a year. It is recommended to service before the summer season as the usage rate is higher during this season.

(B) Central AC Systems: Central air conditioning systems are the second type that cools down the entire house. This type of system needs servicing every six months or at least once a year.

2. The Pattern of its Usage

Every household has different usage pattern. The frequency, at which the air conditioner needs to be serviced to a large extend depends on how often it is being used.

(A) Seasonal Usage: If the aircon is used only during the warmer days i.e summer season, then you can just do an annual servicing before the start of the season.

(B) All Year–Round Usage: If the usage of the air conditioner is throughout the year, then it needs to be serviced more frequently like every six months.

3. The Environment

The environmental conditions are also a key deciding factor on how often the AC needs a servicing.

(A) Climate: In hot and humid places, like Singapore, where air conditioning is not just a luxury but a necessity, to maintain a comfortable indoor environment, it is essential to service the aircons more often due to its heavy usage or usage for a prolonged period.

(B) Air pollution and dust: Depending on the dust and pollution of the area, the air filters of the unit might get quickly clogged and hence attention needs to be paid in frequent servicing.

4. Signs From The Air Conditioner Itself

At many times, the AC itself gives different signs indicating that it needs attention. Sudden water leakage, reduced cooling etc are indications that the AC needs an immediate servicing.

5. Manufacturer’s Recommendations

How often, an aircon unit needs general servicing also varies depending on the brand and model type. It is thus important to follow the guidelines provided by the respective manufacturers.

Singapore Regulations On Air Conditioning Systems

In Singapore, the National Environment Agency (NEA) and the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) have placed regulations around air conditioning systems to ensure safety and environment efficient operation. These regulations include the Air-Conditioning and Mechanical Ventilation (ACMV) system under the Building Control Act and the Environmental Public Health Act.

As per these regulations, the NEA recommends regular servicing of all aircon units at least every 3 months, whereas BCA recommends a servicing at least once a year.

All aircon service contractors must be licensed by NEA and the technician must be trained to conduct aircon servicing.

All residential and business air conditioning systems must comply with these regulations in Singapore.

To conclude, the frequency at which air conditioner should be serviced, depends on various factors, like the type of AC, usage patterns, environmental conditions, manufacturer recommendations, and your maintenance habits. If you neglect regular AC maintenance, it can lead to reduced efficiency, increased energy bills, and even system breakdowns during the hottest days. Therefore, it’s crucial to schedule aircon servicing at a regular interval. Remember that regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your AC unit but also ensures that it continues to provide the cool comfort you rely on, season after season.